About 360 international secondary school pupils from 40 ethnic groups were welcomed to the city at a ceremony in the Kings and Queens Performing Arts Centre.
Dunedin Mayor Peter Chin enjoined pupils to make the most of their time in New Zealand, and to share and receive cultural insights with host families and schools.
The pupils were entertained by performers, including the Logan Park High School Japanese dance group and the Macandrew Intermediate School multicultural group.
A rhythmic performance of a traditional Samoan dance by the Kings High School Pacific Island dance group proved popular.
Education Dunedin marketing manager Sue Radcliffe said an afternoon tea was held after the ceremony to allow more time for pupils to meet those enrolled at other schools.
